The music thumps and you peel off an elbow-length glove. It picks up and you give the crowd a little shimmy. Finally, down to your pasties and g-string you give a little bounce and twirl your tassels. Yes. YOU. Come on, admit it, you've always wanted to learn the art of the bump 'n' grind.
Burlesque classses and seminars around the country let you get your glitter on with help from the pros. For an intensive workshop Miss Indigo Blue’s Academy of Burlesque and Jo Boobs' School of Burlesque have teamed up to offer a Summer Weekend Burlesque Retreat. From August 23-26 you can learn about the history of burlesque as well as performance skills like the burlesque walk, developing a stage persona, and, of course, tassel twirling. Can't make it to Arlington, Washington for the retreat? Here are a few other spots offering classes.
In New York Jo Boobs regularly offers workshops including a Master Class at Coney Island.
Lux LaCroix teaches a five-week class called Bump & Grind 101 in the Los Angeles area.
In Montreal Velma Candyass teaches a fun-filled workshop.
In San Francisco Betty Bombshell runs several burlesque dance classes per week, plus special workshops including Pinup Posing, Pastie Making and Twirling and Corset Making.
Kitty Victorian offers a burlesque workshop in Washington, DC.
In London the Ministry of Burlesque offers Burlesque for Beginners, Boylesque and more.
In Chicago Michelle L'Amour teaches two levels of burlesque, performance-based classes.
The Candy Pitch gave burly a twirl, but this week we take our first pole-dancing lesson. Stay tuned for a report. Know of other classes? Leave 'em in the comments or e-mail me at kellydinardo AT gmail DOT com. I'll add 'em in throughout the day.
